Marcos Alonso Chelsea’s new target
Chelsea are preparing to make a bid for ex-Bolton defender Marcos Alonso, with their search to strengthen their defence becoming more and more urgent this summer.
Chelsea have opened talks with Fiorentina over Alonso, who has previously played in England for Bolton Wanderers and Sunderland, with the Italian club demanding £21 million.
According to The Daily Telegraph, Chelsea boss Antonio Conte wants to add 2 defenders and a midfielder to his squad before the window closes on Wednesday.
They have failed with big bids for central defenders Kalidou Koulibaly and Alessio Romagnoli, with Napoli and AC Milan so far refusing to sell, but the Blues hope to have more success in their move for Alonso. Other than trying to sign a centre-back, Conte wants a full-back to provide competition and cover for César Azpilicueta and Branislav Ivanovic.
The fact that Alonso is known to Conte from his performances in Serie A and has experience of the Premier League is thought to appeal to the club.
By Ben Kelly – @benkelly_10
